Welcome to today’s MLB Preview. We’re focusing primarily on pitching matchups and overall game dynamics. This isn’t just about player picks—it’s about understanding the slate from top to bottom so you can make informed decisions.
Let’s dive into each game on the schedule, breaking down the pitching matchups and what you should expect.
White Sox @ Orioles – 6:35 PM ET – Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Game Preview: Cade Povich has been inconsistent this season, with a 4.57 xERA and a relatively high walk rate of 11.5%. His struggles against right-handed hitters (.407 wOBA) could be a problem against a White Sox lineup that has the potential to get to lefties. On the other side, Nick Nastrini has had issues with control, posting a 19.4% walk rate in his last six games. His command problems could lead to big innings for the Orioles, especially considering his struggles against left-handed hitters.
Game Preview: Max Meyer has shown flashes of potential with a 2.63 xERA, but his 17.0% strikeout rate suggests he’s not missing many bats. The Nationals could pose a challenge, especially since they’ve been better against right-handed pitching. Patrick Corbin continues to battle inconsistencies, particularly against right-handed hitters, who have posted a .201 ISO against him this season. The Marlins have a lineup that could exploit Corbin’s weaknesses, especially in a ballpark that suppresses home runs but rewards contact hitters.
Game Preview: Jeffrey Springs has been dominant, with a 2.92 xERA and a 33.8% strikeout rate against right-handed hitters. He faces a Twins lineup that has been susceptible to left-handed pitching, making this a favorable spot for Springs. David Festa, with a solid 2.89 xERA, will need to bring his best stuff against a Rays lineup that has been tough on right-handers. Festa’s ability to generate swings and misses could be key, but the Rays are known for their disciplined approach at the plate.
Game Preview: Chris Bassitt has had an up-and-down season, with a 4.12 xERA and a tendency to give up hard contact to lefties. He’ll need to navigate a Phillies lineup that has power from both sides of the plate. Tyler Phillips has shown promise with a 3.78 xERA, but his struggles against left-handed hitters could be a problem in this matchup, especially in a hitter-friendly ballpark like Rogers Centre.
Game Preview: David Peterson has been a bright spot for the Mets, with a 2.94 xERA and a strong ground ball rate of 59.2% against left-handed hitters. He faces a Red Sox lineup that has been better against right-handed pitching, making this an intriguing matchup. Kutter Crawford, with a 4.18 xERA, has been inconsistent, particularly against left-handed hitters, which could be an issue against a Mets lineup with some solid left-handed bats.
Game Preview: Chris Sale has been dominant, with a 2.43 xERA and a 30.6% strikeout rate against right-handed hitters. The Rockies have struggled mightily against lefties this season, making this a tough matchup for them. Kyle Freeland, on the other hand, has had a rough year, with a 5.23 xERA and significant struggles against right-handed hitters. The Braves’ powerful lineup should have no trouble taking advantage of Freeland’s weaknesses.
Guardians @ Royals – 7:40 PM ET – Kauffman Stadium
Game Preview: Brady Singer has been solid, with a 3.89 xERA and a good ground ball rate of 52.0%. However, he’s had trouble against left-handed hitters, which could be problematic against a Guardians lineup that features some solid lefties. Tanner Bibee has been impressive with a 2.98 xERA, and his ability to limit hard contact will be key against a Royals lineup that has been inconsistent at best this season.
Game Preview: Kyle Hendricks has had a tough season, with a 5.12 xERA and declining strikeout numbers. The Pirates’ lineup, which has been better against right-handed pitching, could take advantage of Hendricks’ struggles. Paul Skenes, on the other hand, has shown potential with a 3.56 xERA and solid strikeout numbers. The Cubs’ lineup has been inconsistent, giving Skenes an opportunity to continue his strong season.
Cardinals @ Brewers – 7:40 PM ET – American Family Field
Game Preview: Aaron Civale has been a reliable option for the Brewers, with a 3.36 xERA and the ability to limit hard contact. However, the Cardinals have been solid against right-handed pitching, making this a challenging matchup for Civale. Steven Matz has had a rough season, with a 5.17 xERA and significant struggles against right-handed hitters. The Brewers’ lineup could take advantage of Matz’s weaknesses, especially in a hitter-friendly environment like American Family Field.
Game Preview: Andrew Heaney has had a rollercoaster season, with a 4.78 xERA and a tendency to give up home runs. The Yankees’ lineup, which has power from both sides of the plate, could make things difficult for Heaney. Carlos Rodon has been better, with a 3.45 xERA and a strong strikeout rate of 29.1% against left-handed hitters. However, the Rangers’ lineup has been tough on lefties, making this a key matchup to watch.
Game Preview: Reid Detmers has had an up-and-down season, with a 4.56 xERA and struggles against right-handed hitters. The Dodgers’ lineup, which is loaded with right-handed power, could present a tough challenge for Detmers. Walker Buehler has also struggled, with a 5.28 xERA and a low strikeout rate of 17%. The Angels’ lineup, which has been decent against righties, could find success against Buehler.
Mariners @ Athletics – 9:40 PM ET – Oakland Coliseum
Game Preview: J.T. Ginn has had a rough go, with a 5.67 xERA and significant struggles against left-handed hitters. The Mariners’ lineup, which has been solid against right-handed pitching, could take advantage of Ginn’s weaknesses. Luis Castillo, on the other hand, has been excellent, with a 3.89 xERA and a 25% strikeout rate. He should have little trouble against an Athletics lineup that has struggled against righties all season.
Game Preview: Kyle Harrison has been inconsistent, with a 4.78 xERA and struggles against right-handed hitters. The Diamondbacks’ lineup, which has been better against lefties, could pose a challenge for Harrison. Ryne Nelson has shown potential with a 3.98 xERA, but he’s had issues with command. The Giants’ lineup, which has been up and down, could make this an interesting matchup.
That wraps up today’s MLB Preview.
Stay tuned for our deep dive into the top hitters and stacks later today!